Petite Saline Creek facts for kids
Petite Saline Creek is a stream located in Cooper, Moniteau, and Morgan counties in the U.S. state of Missouri. This creek is a smaller stream that flows into the much larger Missouri River.
Contents
Where Does Petite Saline Creek Flow?
The Petite Saline Creek begins its journey near the border of Morgan and Moniteau counties. This starting point is just north of U.S. Route 50, between the towns of Syracuse and Tipton, at an elevation of about 920 feet (38°40′12″N 92°50′18″W / 38.67000°N 92.83833°W).
The creek first flows north into Cooper County, running alongside Missouri Route 5. It then turns east, crossing under Route 5 again near Billingsville. Continuing its path, the stream flows generally east, passing under Missouri Route 87 southeast of Boonville.
Further east, it goes under Missouri Route 179 south of Wooldridge. Finally, Petite Saline Creek reaches the flat lands near the Missouri River, just south of Wooldridge. It joins the Missouri River in the northern part of Moniteau County, across from McBaine, at an elevation of 564 feet (38°52′35″N 92°28′55″W / 38.87639°N 92.48194°W).
Why Is It Called Petite Saline?
The name "Petite Saline Creek" comes from the French words "petite," meaning "little," and "saline," meaning "salty." This creek was given its name because its water had a slightly salty taste. This was due to the many salt licks and salt springs found along its banks.
A Glimpse into History
Petite Saline Creek has been important throughout history.
Lewis and Clark's Discovery
On June 6, 1804, the famous explorers Lewis and Clark passed by this creek during their expedition. They wrote about it in their journals, calling it "saline" or "salt" creek. They noted that the water was "brackish," meaning a bit salty, because of the many salt springs nearby. They even mentioned a large spring where people could make about 7 pounds of good salt from one bushel of its strong salty water.
Civil War Skirmish
During the American Civil War, a small battle, or "skirmish," took place near Wilkin's bridge over Petite Saline Creek. This happened on October 13, 1864. Soldiers from the 5th Regiment, Missouri State Militia Cavalry, fought against troops led by General Fagan. General Fagan's soldiers were guarding the bridge during a military movement known as Price's Raid.
